Bridging Communities: Self-Help Groups in India and Germany

Self Help Groups (SHGs) in India is contributing a crucial role in the sustainable economic growth and development in rural and semi urban areas. Unlike India, Germany’s focus of economic issues is less and concentrating more in supporting communities mainly in the aspects of psychological, medical (health care) and social issues. The present research paper aims to understand structural, socio-economic and psychosocial SHG models of India and Germany to identify opportunities for bridging communities of both the countries. Based on extensive research studies related to the objectives of the studies of SHGs in India and Germany, various strengths and challenges have been identified. Considering the structural aspects and strengths and challenges of SHGs in India and Germany, a cross hybrid model is proposed for bridging the communities of both the countries, which can help the SHGs and supporting stakeholders of both the countries to embark upon social, economic and psychological challenges. This proposed hybrid model is subject to critical discussions and dialogues among the Government organizations, policy makers, various stakeholders and researchers.